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Croft & Wesson #1
Grimstone
Grimstone first appeared as Croft and Wesson in the 2017 multi-author box set Eight in the Chamber.
Go West, Prof Croft!
When my magical order assigns me to Grimstone, Colorado on a case, I’m in no hurry to pack my staff and spell books.
The outlaw county is a far cry from my academic calling in New York City. And I’m being paired with junior wizard James Wesson. A hustler, womanizer, and wannabe cowboy, he’s exactly why I prefer working alone.
But something sinister is snatching blondes on the full moon. The local werewolf gang? The six-hundred pound witch who runs the brothel? Or does the perp come from the mortal ranks of a population as strange as any supernatural I’ve encountered?
The only certainty is the lunar cycle, set to wax full in twenty-four hours—meaning we need to get cracking.
Can the wizard duo of Croft and Wesson blow open the case in time to save the next victim?
Or will our odd-couple act spell doom for Grimstone?
Croft & Wesson is a spinoff of the popular Prof Croft series but stands on its own. If you like buddy wizards, occult mysteries, and wild spell-slinging in one of the Wilder Wests around, you’ll love Croft & Wesson!
Go West, Prof Croft!
When my magical order assigns me to Grimstone, Colorado on a case, I’m in no hurry to pack my staff and spell books.
The outlaw county is a far cry from my academic calling in New York City. And I’m being paired with junior wizard James Wesson. A hustler, womanizer, and wannabe cowboy, he’s exactly why I prefer working alone.
But something sinister is snatching blondes on the full moon. The local werewolf gang? The six-hundred pound witch who runs the brothel? Or does the perp come from the mortal ranks of a population as strange as any supernatural I’ve encountered?
The only certainty is the lunar cycle, set to wax full in twenty-four hours—meaning we need to get cracking.
Can the wizard duo of Croft and Wesson blow open the case in time to save the next victim?
Or will our odd-couple act spell doom for Grimstone?
Croft & Wesson is a spinoff of the popular Prof Croft series but stands on its own. If you like buddy wizards, occult mysteries, and wild spell-slinging in one of the Wilder Wests around, you’ll love Croft & Wesson!
135 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2021
204 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Brad Magnarella
50 books384 followersBrad Magnarella writes urban fantasy for the same reason most read it – to explore worlds where magic crackles from fingertips, vampires and shifters walk city streets, cats talk (some excessively), and good prevails against all odds. It’s shamelessly fun.
His three main series, Prof Croft, Blue Wolf, and Maddy Deeds, make up the growing Croftverse, with nearly a half-million books sold to date and an Independent Audiobook Award nomination.
Hopelessly nomadic, Brad can be found in a rented room overseas or hiking America's backcountry.
To learn more about the Croftverse, and download two free prequel novellas, visit his website at bradmagnarella.com
His three main series, Prof Croft, Blue Wolf, and Maddy Deeds, make up the growing Croftverse, with nearly a half-million books sold to date and an Independent Audiobook Award nomination.
Hopelessly nomadic, Brad can be found in a rented room overseas or hiking America's backcountry.
To learn more about the Croftverse, and download two free prequel novellas, visit his website at bradmagnarella.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 8, 2022
Grimstone
(Croft & Wesson #1)
by Brad Magnarella
This has Croft helping a friend but there are other side issues going on too. Seems to be a prequel for this new series. Darn good!
(Croft & Wesson #1)
by Brad Magnarella
This has Croft helping a friend but there are other side issues going on too. Seems to be a prequel for this new series. Darn good!
July 2, 2023
Ahh yes back with Croft and the mischief he gets into this time he’s mentoring a new wizard (why) who seems to attract more trouble that Croft himself. From missing women, a Wolfpack gang after them and a zombie god, just another day on the life of Croft
August 15, 2024
☆☆ SPOILER ALERT ☆☆
I wouldn't say terrible but the added 'buddy cop' ingredient was less than flavorful. The Neanderthal sexism was so tired. A black, fake cowboy, rocker? Really. What is this 1982? The young magician is out on his own in a strange land, who wants every pretty girl he sees and could follow a direction if it were taped to his nose. The Order trusts him to be on his own. Nope I don't see it. Croft who screws up half the time should be his mentor. I also don't see it.
Why does something like magic run out so often?
Why can't they cast well without a focus object?
I tried to overlook these obvious flaws because I'm trying to learn to like Croft. I listened to many of the other stories and for the most part, enjoyed them. (minus Tabby, of course)
Oh, and I can count on one hand the non-angry characters in this book. People who weren't bitchin, moaning, or outright angry for one reason or another.
Oh well maybe I'll listen to the next one.
✌🏾
I wouldn't say terrible but the added 'buddy cop' ingredient was less than flavorful. The Neanderthal sexism was so tired. A black, fake cowboy, rocker? Really. What is this 1982? The young magician is out on his own in a strange land, who wants every pretty girl he sees and could follow a direction if it were taped to his nose. The Order trusts him to be on his own. Nope I don't see it. Croft who screws up half the time should be his mentor. I also don't see it.
Why does something like magic run out so often?
Why can't they cast well without a focus object?
I tried to overlook these obvious flaws because I'm trying to learn to like Croft. I listened to many of the other stories and for the most part, enjoyed them. (minus Tabby, of course)
Oh, and I can count on one hand the non-angry characters in this book. People who weren't bitchin, moaning, or outright angry for one reason or another.
Oh well maybe I'll listen to the next one.
✌🏾
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2021
This is the first Prof. Croft book I've read also the first Brad Magnarella book I've seen. I liked it. Everson Croft is a Wizard he goes to Grimstone to help his friend and partner James Wesson in the midst of looking for missing blonde women there is a Werewolf clan, A Madam Witch and a Zombie God of Death ohh yes and lets not forget Dwarves *Spoiler Alert* it also has a language warning if you don't like curse words or language like that this might not be the book for you it is a short one and has some funny parts...Good start to a new author
December 16, 2022
A fun novella, with characters with lots of possibilities and a partnership of the chalk and cheese kind :P
Yes, James is a bit of a loose cannon, but a fun one. And I love how he calls Croft 'Prof' and how much he loves Annie ♥
I'll be listening to the next story, this seems like a very entertaining series.
Yes, James is a bit of a loose cannon, but a fun one. And I love how he calls Croft 'Prof' and how much he loves Annie ♥
I'll be listening to the next story, this seems like a very entertaining series.
January 23, 2022
Croft goes west to Arizona to assist Wesson hunt down something taking blonde women once a month. It was okay
July 3, 2021
Prof Croft leaves his students and everything back in NYC and is ordered to go to Colorado to mentor a young practitioner. There he encounters werewolves, a crazy witch, an unusual sheriff, and something that is abducting natural blondes once a month. The laughs are nonstop! I love Prof Croft!
It's soooo much better with James Patrick Cronin giving the audio performance, and besides, I can listen to it in the car and drive passengers nutz!
It's soooo much better with James Patrick Cronin giving the audio performance, and besides, I can listen to it in the car and drive passengers nutz!
July 20, 2021
𝑮𝒓𝒊𝒎𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒆, Croft & Wesson, Book #1
by Brad Magnarella
I'm a big fan of Magnarella's Prof. Croft series, so of course I was interested in this spin-off novel featuring Prof. Crof and another character, James Wesson. This book first appeared in a multi-book box set in 2017. Magnarella has recently re-released it and has said there will probably be more in the series. It is also available in an audio version on Youtube (4:04:54).
So, I very much enjoyed this book. It contained lots of action, plenty of danger to the characters, a nice developing relationship between the two very different wizards, as well as a decent plot, a full cast of relatable characters in believable situations, great pacing/flow, excellent editing and proofing (I only spotted on error), and a nice, non-cliffhanger ending. Although I'm very familiar with Croft, the other characters were all new to me, and the novel is set after book 4 in this currently 9-novel series. It wasn't too much of a problem to suspend what I know happens after that timeline, but there were a couple of times when I got a little confused. I guess you can tell I'm not a fan of prequels. If there was background information/adventures that the reader needs or wants to know about, perhaps beginning the author beginning the series at the beginning is a good idea. Yeah, I know, a lot of people like those flashback stories, but I'm not one of them, so, in my eyes, the book isn't as good as the novels that follow a straight timeline, rather than skipping around. And, yes, I also realize this is the first book in a spin-off series, and that does make a difference. But, still, I'm reviewing this book, and as a reader of the series it spins off of, I have to rate the novel as it appeals to me. So, 4 stars rather than 5.
Still, it was a good read and I would recommend it to anyone who loves urban fantasies, whether they have read the Prof. Croft series or not.
by Brad Magnarella
I'm a big fan of Magnarella's Prof. Croft series, so of course I was interested in this spin-off novel featuring Prof. Crof and another character, James Wesson. This book first appeared in a multi-book box set in 2017. Magnarella has recently re-released it and has said there will probably be more in the series. It is also available in an audio version on Youtube (4:04:54).
So, I very much enjoyed this book. It contained lots of action, plenty of danger to the characters, a nice developing relationship between the two very different wizards, as well as a decent plot, a full cast of relatable characters in believable situations, great pacing/flow, excellent editing and proofing (I only spotted on error), and a nice, non-cliffhanger ending. Although I'm very familiar with Croft, the other characters were all new to me, and the novel is set after book 4 in this currently 9-novel series. It wasn't too much of a problem to suspend what I know happens after that timeline, but there were a couple of times when I got a little confused. I guess you can tell I'm not a fan of prequels. If there was background information/adventures that the reader needs or wants to know about, perhaps beginning the author beginning the series at the beginning is a good idea. Yeah, I know, a lot of people like those flashback stories, but I'm not one of them, so, in my eyes, the book isn't as good as the novels that follow a straight timeline, rather than skipping around. And, yes, I also realize this is the first book in a spin-off series, and that does make a difference. But, still, I'm reviewing this book, and as a reader of the series it spins off of, I have to rate the novel as it appeals to me. So, 4 stars rather than 5.
Still, it was a good read and I would recommend it to anyone who loves urban fantasies, whether they have read the Prof. Croft series or not.
June 10, 2022
Although hardly more than a baby wizard himself, Croft is sent out west to the desert to help Wesson, and even more unschooled wizard sort out “the case of the missing blonds.” Fast talking, fast shooting, Wesson is a bumbling baby wizard who overvalues his own skill, under appreciates the skill of his opponents, and can’t keep his mouth shut long enough to stay out of trouble. Basically, in this book, Croft follows Wesson around town while Wesson stumbles around making a mess every time he opens his mouth. His ignorance in the realm of magic is staggering. It’s only through dumb luck and brute force that Cross and Wesson bumble their way to a solution at all. I constantly found myself a feeling embarrassed on behalf of Wesson and sorry for Croft. He never loses his cool though. I would have slapped Wesson up-side the head and ducky taped his mouth shut about half way through.
August 5, 2023
My first time with this author and this series.
I will give this one a solid all right. Nothing special from my point of view. The characters did not grab me and pull me in. Seemed a lot like a Magnarella is trying to capitalize on two genres, Urban Fantasy and Westerns. If that was the case I feel it came up short.
The story itself was ok, but again nothing special. For me the characters didn't really evolve as much as I would expect. Also for me it seemed like every character you met was not shocked that there were wizards running about. Not only wizards but werewolves and a witch as well. I would not think the general public would be quite that accepting.
All in all for me it was an all right read. I test drove a new to me author and met some new characters. Probably wont continue the series but if I hit a dry spell you just never know.
I will give this one a solid all right. Nothing special from my point of view. The characters did not grab me and pull me in. Seemed a lot like a Magnarella is trying to capitalize on two genres, Urban Fantasy and Westerns. If that was the case I feel it came up short.
The story itself was ok, but again nothing special. For me the characters didn't really evolve as much as I would expect. Also for me it seemed like every character you met was not shocked that there were wizards running about. Not only wizards but werewolves and a witch as well. I would not think the general public would be quite that accepting.
All in all for me it was an all right read. I test drove a new to me author and met some new characters. Probably wont continue the series but if I hit a dry spell you just never know.
September 24, 2022
Professor Croft and Wesson the dynamic duo
Croft and Wesson solved the case of the missing women, killed a Norse God, and helped the sheriff close the cases. One god thing Elmer was no longer bonded to it he God, he was healed, got his jobs back and received the money from his sisters accounts to provide for his long term care. The Order was happy about the outcome and James was reimbursed for his trailer and his car and weapons. Alls well that end well. Croft and Wesson made a great team.
Croft and Wesson solved the case of the missing women, killed a Norse God, and helped the sheriff close the cases. One god thing Elmer was no longer bonded to it he God, he was healed, got his jobs back and received the money from his sisters accounts to provide for his long term care. The Order was happy about the outcome and James was reimbursed for his trailer and his car and weapons. Alls well that end well. Croft and Wesson made a great team.
November 17, 2022
Entertaining horror listening 🎶🔰
Another will written haunting horror ghost 👻 adventure thriller novel by Brad Magnaella (Croft & Wesson book 1). Front and Wesson end up ☝ fighting Werwolves, demons, and dwarfs to prevent more young 👦woman from disappearing. They end up ☝ in a fast moving fight to rescue a young 👦 woman ending in a win. I would recommend this novel, series, and author too readers of action mysteries novels 👍🔰. Enjoy the adventure of reading or listening to books 📚. 2022 😮👒😈
Another will written haunting horror ghost 👻 adventure thriller novel by Brad Magnaella (Croft & Wesson book 1). Front and Wesson end up ☝ fighting Werwolves, demons, and dwarfs to prevent more young 👦woman from disappearing. They end up ☝ in a fast moving fight to rescue a young 👦 woman ending in a win. I would recommend this novel, series, and author too readers of action mysteries novels 👍🔰. Enjoy the adventure of reading or listening to books 📚. 2022 😮👒😈
January 3, 2025
Okay.
Where do I start?
I enjoyed this for the most part. While I’ve had the Professor Croft books on my to-read list for a while this is actually my first one (I know it doesn’t make sense to me either).
Anyway like I said I enjoyed this for the most part. It just seemed to be trying too hard at times. The James/werewolf fiasco just annoyed me to be honest. And made James come across as a bit of an idiot initially.
But in my defence I’m full of cold and feeling sorry for myself. So it could just be me that’s in a bad mood.
Where do I start?
I enjoyed this for the most part. While I’ve had the Professor Croft books on my to-read list for a while this is actually my first one (I know it doesn’t make sense to me either).
Anyway like I said I enjoyed this for the most part. It just seemed to be trying too hard at times. The James/werewolf fiasco just annoyed me to be honest. And made James come across as a bit of an idiot initially.
But in my defence I’m full of cold and feeling sorry for myself. So it could just be me that’s in a bad mood.
January 20, 2024
Pard'ner
Magical tales of the west in it's wannabe cowboy glory. One team member fills the role of "old west" sort-of sheriffy and the other is a real life Professor "city slicker". The professor is supposed to be mentoring the cowboy "sheriff" but it's more like slap stick. The humor grows on you.
Magical tales of the west in it's wannabe cowboy glory. One team member fills the role of "old west" sort-of sheriffy and the other is a real life Professor "city slicker". The professor is supposed to be mentoring the cowboy "sheriff" but it's more like slap stick. The humor grows on you.
July 17, 2025
“She wears reading glasses and these conservative sweaters,” he went on, his smile growing broader. “But the way she wears them. Whoa, momma.” He shook his head and propped his forearm on the windowsill. “I’m telling you, there’s a she-tiger crouching inside. Just wait till you see her, man.” “Can’t wait,” I muttered.
July 4, 2021
Crofton and Wesson is a gray pair!!
Loved this crossover book!! It was fun having James show up in a previous Croft book and now to have them together was great fun. Can't wait for another one!! That witch we'll be bad I'm sure!!
Loved this crossover book!! It was fun having James show up in a previous Croft book and now to have them together was great fun. Can't wait for another one!! That witch we'll be bad I'm sure!!
July 9, 2021
I loved the James and Croft duo. The story was engaging and fun. The characters are so real, I can easily envision each of them. The story twists were great, and I had no idea who the true villain was until it was revealed... love when that happens. Great storytelling!
August 13, 2021
Fun little romp
While a lot of the tale was predictable, it was still a fun read. The characters are solid, although at times a found the dialogue a bit cheesy. Still, I've been enjoying the Croftverse for the past couple of months and this was a nice little detour.
While a lot of the tale was predictable, it was still a fun read. The characters are solid, although at times a found the dialogue a bit cheesy. Still, I've been enjoying the Croftverse for the past couple of months and this was a nice little detour.
August 20, 2021
This is my second book from this author and I loved it even more than the first one. The rapport between characters was amusing but not try-hard, no unnecessary romances, just good, old fashioned devilry. It was fabulous.
February 14, 2022
Good story all around
I don't get tired of these storyline. At first I was on the fence. The duo without a thought makes an interesting story. Great last few chapters even better ending. Looking forward to the next story of Prof. Croft
I don't get tired of these storyline. At first I was on the fence. The duo without a thought makes an interesting story. Great last few chapters even better ending. Looking forward to the next story of Prof. Croft
March 10, 2022
Croft and Wesson do make a good team.
This was a quick read. Took me only a few days, but I enjoyed it. It got straight into the action. Also both characters Croft and Wesson were enjoyable together. I’d like to read more about them
This was a quick read. Took me only a few days, but I enjoyed it. It got straight into the action. Also both characters Croft and Wesson were enjoyable together. I’d like to read more about them
June 12, 2022
Decent book
The characters were well developed and the storyline seemed okay. Just not the best or worst I've read recently. I'm not likely to read the next one but at least it tells a decent story.
The characters were well developed and the storyline seemed okay. Just not the best or worst I've read recently. I'm not likely to read the next one but at least it tells a decent story.
June 21, 2022
Grimstone
This was a really cool story. Two wizards sent to Grimstone to solve a serial killings. There is a sweet dog named Annie. Lots of action and danger, but these dudes can handle it.
This was a really cool story. Two wizards sent to Grimstone to solve a serial killings. There is a sweet dog named Annie. Lots of action and danger, but these dudes can handle it.
October 1, 2022
Tom and Jerry?
I love a book That pulls you in from beginning to end and these two delivered The 1st time I met James I thought he was To work with a Partner But I love the bromance with them. Going for book 2 now
I love a book That pulls you in from beginning to end and these two delivered The 1st time I met James I thought he was To work with a Partner But I love the bromance with them. Going for book 2 now
August 18, 2023
This book was my first introduction to Croft and Wesson, series, and I love it! The storyline is fast, believable, and entertaining. It's got all that makes it a good read and one worth collecting for the home library.
August 4, 2025
Croft just does it again
This is just another example of how Croft gets into another insane mess! But it's so much more fun in Grimstone not NY. And the different magic that gets used is interesting. Now can he get the Order to give him a good review for both him and Wesson.
This is just another example of how Croft gets into another insane mess! But it's so much more fun in Grimstone not NY. And the different magic that gets used is interesting. Now can he get the Order to give him a good review for both him and Wesson.
July 3, 2021
A great spin-off
A really good spin-off story from the Prof Croft series.
Good to see what Wesson has been up to since he left Croft, looking forward to more stories with him in it.
A really good spin-off story from the Prof Croft series.
Good to see what Wesson has been up to since he left Croft, looking forward to more stories with him in it.
July 20, 2021
Hope to see more of this combination. Witty and entertaining!
July 22, 2021
My first time reading this author and I was pleased with this story.
August 2, 2021
New adventure
Great to have Croft outside of NY. Wesson is always a humorous companion. For those who are perturbed by the twist on Norse mythology - it's called fiction.
Great to have Croft outside of NY. Wesson is always a humorous companion. For those who are perturbed by the twist on Norse mythology - it's called fiction.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews